A crepe myrtlealso called a crape myrtle or crapemyrtleis a wonderful addition to just about any yard.
Weve got all the answers on how to select, plant, and care for these fabulous trees.
Van Chaplin
The South’s love affair with crepe myrtles is undeniable.
Credit:Van Chaplin
In some areas, you see them on practically every streetand for good reason.
Few plants can match their combination of spectacular summer flowers, colorful autumn foliage, and handsome sculptural trunks.
Some of the smaller growing selections even look great in large containers.
Credit: Van Chaplin
But don’t buy impulsively.
Pay attention to the plant’s tag.
Crepe myrtles range in sizefromdwarf selectionsthat grow less than 3 feet tall toseveral that reach upwards of 30 feet.
Credit: Photo: Van Chaplin
If you’re in the Upper South, you should also look for selections that are extra cold-hardy.
Where to Plant a Crepe Myrtle
Crepe myrtles have many landscape uses.
Planted together, they make a large deciduous hedge or screen.
Be sure to choose the right size for your needs.
The larger types need room to grow without encroaching on buildings, power lines, or walkways.
Medium-size selections that will grow from 12 to 15 feet are perfect for a small courtyard or garden home.
The dwarf selections look great in large containers, foundation plantings, and even incorporated into perennial beds.
Also, remember that crepe myrtles love sun.
The amount of flower production is greatly reduced in light shade, and full shade can prevent blooming altogether.
When to Plant a Crepe Myrtle
Late fall to early spring is the best time to plant.
That works too, but watering well during the summer months is crucial to transitioning it into your garden.
Their sugary excretions causessooty mold.
Repeat this treatment as necessary.
A white powdery fungus calledpowdery mildewsometimes attacks the leaves of many older selections of crepe myrtles.
you’re free to prevent this problem by planting a mildew-resistant selection.
